Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

proleptically

adverb

pruh-LEP-ti-klee

Definition

In a manner that anticipates or foreshadows something that will happen in the future.

Examples

In telling the story proleptically, the author laid the groundwork for the dramatic twist that would unfold later in the narrative.
The scientist presented his findings proleptically, indicating that the implications would become clearer with further research.

Meaning

Proleptically refers to addressing future occurrences in a way that hints at or suggests their eventual arrival, often used in narrative to create suspense or a sense of inevitability.